KT Debate: Is it a good time to look for a new job?

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Dubai - At a time when the labour market remains unstable, some residents see it as an opportunity to switch to a better job or renegotiate their benefits in the contracts.

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A Staff Reporter

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Published: Sun 25 Oct 2020, 6:44 AM

Last updated: Sun 25 Oct 2020, 6:45 AM

Itching for a debate? Want a battle of the brains with a cross-section of UAE residents, who come from over 200 different nationalities? Here is your chance to speak out on issues that matter. Be part of 'KT Debate,' a weekly column where our readers are free to agree and disagree; where we promote diverse thinking and genuine disagreements. There is no winning or losing side. Here is where ideas converge and horizons widen. Here is where minds meet and communities evolve.

At a time when the labour market remains unstable, some residents see it as an opportunity to switch to a better job or renegotiate their benefits in the contracts.


People largely remain apprehensive and anxious discussing job security or even asking their employer for a salary hike. The work from home culture, some said, have introduced them to a whole new world of online networking and building contacts. In today’s competitive world, it is but natural to opt for an employee-friendly company with good pay and perks. However, with the uncertainty over the true impact of the pandemic, how many can make a move?

FOR


Getting an increment or a promotion isn’t easy, and even more so now, and that’s why people hop jobs in search of greener pastures and security. So, if they get opportunities, people must utilise it. I am satisfied with my employer but those who are not must look to switch jobs. We are entering an era where mental health will become the most important factor. If an employee is not happy and comfortable with his employer, he or she should search for an employee-friendly company. If you get a better salary, it’s a bonus.

Shamsudeen Soopy, Sales supervisor

This is like a truth or dare question. Most of my friends have been feeling exhausted from working overtime for the past months. The work from home culture and virtual offices made employees double the shift hours. So, those who performed like this may expect to be rewarded with at least a token pay hike. Hard work of employees must be recognised or they may look for a change. Thousands of people have lost jobs but positions remain vacant or new ones created. I hope those who stay put are recognised once the market returns to business as usual.

Sakina Binderwala, Business development manager

This is a difficult decision to take. But if someone is feeling insecure in their job, then they must look for a change. In the current world, people must do their own networking to know the market trends. They should know the fundamentals of their own company and make decisions. I am comfortable with my employer and don’t see myself looking for a change. But I think people must continue to look for opportunities; they must feel empowered, and have a sense of purpose in life. This is a competitive world and we must never feel complacent.

Junaid Kabeer, Customer support manager

AGAINST

I think the past few months have taught us many new lessons. The first and foremost is the importance of relationships in your personal life or professional one. I am a person who believes in commitment. I have never asked for an increment, benefits or threatened to quit if I don’t get these. I never have any expectations. I have let my work speak for itself. I am happy where I am today. I will never endorse a job change, especially when the pandemic is still a visible threat. I urge youngsters to continue to focus on performance.

Abdul Latheef, Branch manager

Everyone is aware about the present situation where most of the people are affected because of the pandemic. Hence, during such an uncertain and challenging situation, rather than looking for a new job or asking for an increment, we should be content with what we have and be satisfied with our current profession. Instead of thinking and searching for other job opportunities, we should show more dedication and put extra time and effort to improve our competency in the existing field. This will also help our employers to emerge stronger from this situation.

Muralitharan Kalimuthu, Head of projects

During this pandemic situation, it’s better to stay on the same job with whatever salary you are getting. It’s too hard to find any openings nowadays and many of my friends back in my home country are losing their jobs. I am grateful to have a steady job and salary. I believe now is the time for most employees to show their value by performing exceptionally. Even during loss of pay months, there was no drop in our performance. So naturally an employer will take note of such efforts.

Haji Ali, Project sales coordinator

reporters@khaleejtimes.com


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